Phogat and Punia have achieved prominence in international wrestling, with Phogat earning accolades at the World Wrestling Championships and Commonwealth Games, while Punia is recognized for his gold medal performances at the World Wrestling Championships and other international events. Their transition into politics is expected to influence both the electorate and the Congress party's campaign strategy.
The inclusion of these athletes in Congress's list of candidates is seen as a strategic move to leverage their popularity and influence. The Congress party aims to harness their public appeal to boost its electoral prospects in Haryana, a state with a complex political landscape and significant rural and urban constituencies. Phogat will contest from the Hisar constituency, while Punia is set to run in the Sonipat constituency.
This development follows a broader trend in Indian politics where prominent figures from various fields, including sports and entertainment, are being enlisted to garner support and engage with a diverse electorate. The Congress party's decision underscores its strategy to appeal to the youth and sports enthusiasts, tapping into the wrestlers' extensive fan base.
Phogat and Punia's entry into politics is also seen as part of the Congress party's effort to address issues related to sports development and athlete welfare. Both wrestlers have been vocal about the challenges faced by athletes in India, including inadequate infrastructure and support systems. Their political campaigns are expected to focus on these issues, advocating for better facilities and resources for athletes across the country.
The move has generated considerable discussion among political analysts and commentators. Some view it as a tactical maneuver by the Congress party to energize its base and appeal to a broader audience. Others are cautious, questioning the effectiveness of leveraging celebrity status in achieving substantial electoral gains.
As the election campaign heats up, Phogat and Punia are likely to play a pivotal role in shaping the Congress party's messaging and outreach efforts. Their transition from sports to politics will be closely watched, with both supporters and critics keen to see how their high-profile status translates into political success.
The Haryana state elections are crucial for the Congress party as it seeks to regain ground in a state where it has faced challenges in recent years. The party's strategy of fielding well-known personalities is aimed at countering the dominance of regional parties and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which has a strong presence in the state.